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Best picks

Best Rechargeable Head Torches in the UK (2026)

Ledlenser HF6R Core is a strong all-round choice for USB-C charging, focus adjustment and a stated IP68 rating. Petzl ACTIK CORE adds a replaceable battery option; Alpkit's models cover lightweight use, extended outings and charging on the move.

Quick answer

Ledlenser HF6R Core is our top pick for a rechargeable headlamp with fine focus adjustment and a documented IP68 rating. Choose Petzl ACTIK CORE if you want the option of standard batteries, Alpkit Graviton for its charge case, or Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 for warm and cool light with a replaceable 18650 cell.

01

Best for adjustable focus and weather protection

Ledlenser HF6R Core

  • The manufacturer lists up to 800 lumens and a 160 m beam distance.
  • Digital Advanced Focus System provides a transition between flood and spot beams.
  • Ledlenser specifies magnetic USB-C charging and IP68 water and dust resistance.

Drawback: Boost mode runtime is not stated on the product page.

02Petzl ACTIK COREOfficial manufacturer image

Best for a replaceable battery choice

Petzl ACTIK CORE

  • Petzl lists a 625-lumen maximum and red lighting.
  • Its HYBRID CONCEPT supports the CORE rechargeable battery or standard batteries.
  • The manufacturer includes ACTIK CORE among its multisport and running headlamps.

Drawback: The headlamp's listed maximum output does not tell you the runtime at that level; consult the technical notice.

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03Fenix HM65R-T V2.0Official manufacturer image

Best for warm and cool white light

Fenix HM65R-T V2.0

  • Fenix specifies two light colours and eight modes.
  • It uses a supplied rechargeable 18650 battery and USB-C charging.
  • The product page lists IP68 protection and a rotary-adjustment SPORT headband.

Drawback: Its 140 g listed weight includes the battery and headband, making it less compact than some front-loaded options.

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04Alpkit GravitonOfficial manufacturer image

Best for a compact torch with a charging case

Alpkit Graviton

  • Alpkit lists the torch at 53 g and includes a charging case.
  • The rechargeable lamp supports USB-C charging directly or while inside the case.
  • Its modes include red light and flashing, as well as white settings.

Drawback: The high-mode runtime is listed as two hours, so choose a lower setting for longer use.

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05Alpkit QarkOfficial manufacturer image

Best for a backup battery format

Alpkit Qark

  • The Qark charges through USB-C and can also use three AAA batteries.
  • Alpkit lists an adjustable beam and a 580-lumen maximum output.
  • The published product details specify IPX6 water resistance.

Drawback: AAA batteries are an alternative power source, not a way to recharge the built-in battery.

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Compare them side by side

Ledlenser HF6R CorePetzl ACTIK COREOfficial manufacturer imagePetzl ACTIK COREFenix HM65R-T V2.0Official manufacturer imageFenix HM65R-T V2.0Alpkit GravitonOfficial manufacturer imageAlpkit GravitonAlpkit QarkOfficial manufacturer imageAlpkit Qark
Maximum output800 lumens625 lumens1,600 lumens400 lumens580 lumens
Charging methodMagnetic USB-CCORE battery chargingUSB-CUSB-C; case also charges torchUSB-C
Battery alternatives—Standard batteriesCR123A batteries listed as an alternative—3 AAA batteries
Weight126 g—140 g incl. battery and headband53 g torch; 58 g case—
Weather ratingIP68—IP68IPX5IPX6
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Common questions

Questions before you buy

What is the best rechargeable head torch for long trips?

It depends on whether you can recharge during the trip. Alpkit Graviton includes a case that can top up the lamp, while Alpkit Qark and Petzl ACTIK CORE offer alternative battery formats. Compare runtime at the brightness you expect to use.

Can a rechargeable head torch also use disposable batteries?

Some can. Petzl ACTIK CORE accepts the CORE rechargeable battery or standard batteries, and Alpkit Qark can also use three AAA batteries. Follow the exact model's battery instructions.

Is USB-C better than a proprietary charging cable for a head torch?

USB-C can make it easier to share a charging cable with other devices, but check whether the lamp charges directly or needs a particular battery. Ledlenser HF6R Core uses a magnetic USB-C charging system, while Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 has an internal USB-C port for its supported battery.

How long does a rechargeable head torch battery last?

Runtime varies by model and brightness setting. For example, Alpkit Graviton lists two hours at its 400-lumen high mode and up to 37 hours in eco mode; use the manufacturer's mode table for a realistic comparison.

Sources and how we chose